ORUCC Supports Transgender People

On February 9th, ORUCC member Cody Theis facilitated a session of “Java & Jesus” in support of Trans People, and Trans Children in particular. Cody writes: “Thank you for showing your concern and care for transgender people. It brought me great comfort to know that so many in our church care. Here are some ideas I have on ways our community could continue this work.” 

1. Be visible. Show up with our church banner and progress pride flags, etc. to events/activities such as pride parades, Trans Joy events, etc.

2. Host a book club on Trans Kids, Our Kids.

3. Deepen our commitment to being an Open and Affirming congregation. I think there are trans families that could find nourishment and hope in our church at this time. 

This is the organization I mentioned that was bringing me hope:

Trans Youth Emergency Project – Campaign for Southern Equality

Originally helping families in the 26 states that currently have gender affirming care bans, they are now helping people across the country. They connect families to safe and legal gender affirming care by helping locate providers and providing emergency grants to help cover travel costs.

The following national organizations are working on fighting hateful EOs and in need of donations to continue the work:

Lambda Legal

PFLAG National

ACLU

Local:

PFLAG Madison

Home – Fair Wisconsin

GSAFE

Trans Law Help Center

MATA

Transparent Wisconsin – a local support group for parents and caregivers of transgender, non-binary, and gender expansive youth that reside in the state of Wisconsin. To join monthly in-person meetings for caregivers and youth: email [email protected]

Other Resources:

10 Things You Can Do to Be an Ally to People Who Are Trans 

Click here for Annotated Bibliography of Point-by-Point Rebuttals of Anti-Transgender Misinformation

Cody Sorlie Theis (she/her/they)

(608) 609-6396